Eating a bit better
Americans are getting savvier about eating right and exercising, according to a nationwide survey of 783 men and women by the American Dietetic Assn., “Nutrition and You: Trends 2008.”
When asked about maintaining a healthful diet and engaging in regular exercise, 43% said, “I’m already doing it.” In 2002, that number was 38%. People in the “I know I should” category -- who understand a healthy lifestyle is critical but haven’t done much to achieve it -- numbered 38%, up from 30% in 2002. And just 19% of men and women put themselves in the “don’t bother me” category -- not believing that diet and exercise are important. That’s down from 32% in 2002.
More stats: When participants were asked to rank major and minor reasons for not wanting to do more to attain a balanced diet, 79% said they’re satisfied with the way they eat, and 73% said they don’t want to give up the foods they like. Only 41% said it was because they didn’t understand diet and nutrition guidelines. In 2008, 40% said they were actively seeking more information on nutrition, up from 19% in 2000.
People also are making different choices. In the last five years, 56% of people surveyed increased their consumption of whole-grain foods; 50%, vegetables; 48%, fruits; and 42%, chicken. And 41% decreased their intake of beef; 23%, dairy; and 33%, pork.
--